Gundaroo is an important example of a typical 19th century Australian village and has become a significant tourist attraction for the area. Similarly its unique character has attracted many new residents in recent years. Gundaroo is special because it does not have the urban sprawl which is associated with other small towns within commuting distance of Canberra.
The village lies in the Yass River valley on gently rolling countryside and is surrounded by distant wooded hills. It contains all the elements typical of a township from last century such as an hotel, a general store/post office, a Common, a Park and three churches. The main street is mostly preserved in its original character.
Most of the older buildings were constructed in the period 1860-1890 and are generally in good condition. There is a range of building styles and materials including slab huts, wattle and daub, stone and locally fired brick.
There are now several newer buildings scattered throughout the village many of which complement the historic character of the township. There are also pleasing open spaces and a town common bordering the village on the eastern side. The common is one of the few remaining functioning town commons in existence and provides an area for villagers to graze cattle.
The National Trust has defined the village as being of historic significance and it has been classified as an Urban Conservation Area.
More information about Gundaroo and district:
Click here for a sketch of the main street (Cork Street)
Gundaroo History
Present Day Gundaroo
The Gundaroo Community Association
The Gundaroo Soldiers' Memorial Hall
Food
Local businesses
Child-Care
For details contact Julia Morphett
84 Lute Street
Gundaroo
T: (02) 6236 8305
E: julia.morphett@bigpond.com
Other Things
Further reading:
Other places to visit:
Mail comments or queries to
Gundaroo Historical Society
historicalsocietygundaroo@gmail.com
P.O. Gundaroo, NSW 2620
Australia
Ph 02 62368166